Cervical dysplasia is characterized by the presence of abnormal cells on the surface of the cervix. Caused by the human papilloma virus, or HPV, cervical dysplasia is a precancerous condition that, according to MedlinePlus, most commonly affects women ages 25 to 35. It is symptom free and can usually only be identified by undergoing a Pap smear test. If you have this condition, you may require surgery or laser treatment to remove the abnormal cells. Folic acid might also play a role in the prevention of cervical dysplasia, although evidence to prove its effectiveness is limited. Consult your doctor before taking a folic acid supplement.
Properties and Potential Benefits
Also known as vitamin B-9, folic acid is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a key role in reducing the risk of neural tube defects in the developing fetus. The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center notes that it might also help reduce levels of homocysteine, high levels of which are associated with cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer's disease. An article published in the October 2009 issue of "Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers & Prevention" also notes that low folic acid levels are associated with a high risk of HPV infection.
Sources and Administration
A wide variety of foods contain folic acid including liver, Brussels sprouts, spinach, chickpeas, oranges, asparagus and fortified cereals. It is also available as a dietary supplement. Guidance regarding a suitable dose to help prevent cervical dysplasia is lacking, but your doctor might be able to advise you. Read the supplement label carefully before using.
Scientific Evidence
Studies showing that folic acid has a direct effect on cervical dysplasia are lacking. However, the results of a study in 345 patients, published in the December 2004 issue of "Cancer Research" indicate that improving folic acid status in subjects at risk of becoming infected with HPV, or already infected with HPV, may help to prevent cervical cancer. Research published in the November 2003 issue of "Cancer Causes & Control" also indicates that folic acid might help protect against the development of cervical cancer cells.
Safety Considerations
Folic acid supplements may cause side effects including gastrointestinal upset such as bloating, nausea and gas. It might also affect your sleep pattern. Keep in mind that folic acid may interact with other medicines you are taking, including antiseizure drugs and methotrexate. Talk to your doctor before using folic acid if you have kidney disease or anemia.
References
- MedlinePlus; Cervical Dysplasia; Feb. 21, 2010
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center; Folate; May 27, 2011
- "Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers & Prevention"; Folate Status and Aberrant DNA Methylation Are Associated With HPV Infection and Cervical Pathogenesis; J.E. Flatley, et al.; October 2009
- Drugs.com: Folic Acid
- "Cancer Research"; Folate is Associated with the Natural History of High-Risk Human Papillomaviruses; C.J. Piyathilake, et al.; December 2004
- "Cancer Causes & Control"; Diet and Premalignant Lesions of the Cervix: Evidence of a Protective Role for Folate, Riboflavin, Thiamin, and Vitamin B12; B.Y. Hernandez, et al.; November 2003
